1985 Ferrari 308 GTS QV 'Modified'

Only 233 right-hand drive, GTS 'QV' models were produced and they are considered by many to be the most desirable of all the 308 variations. They are certainly the fastest and arguably more subtly styled with a deep front valance, racing mirrors, and short lightweight bumpers.

This 308 GTS QV was delivered new to Maranello Concessionaires, Surrey on 8th March 1985 and was ordered in the rare colour combination of Metallic Blue Chiaro with a white leather interior piped in blue. Factory options included a deep front spoiler and air conditioning. However, its first owner was rather disappointed in the Ferrari's power output. The somewhat unorthodox solution was for Nigel Hudson, then at Nigel Mansell's Ferrari main dealership network Emblem Sports Cars, to engineer and squeeze a brand-new Ferrari 400 series V12 engine into the bay. This work was carried out to a very high standard and was completed in the late 1980s.

The results are quite astonishing. The 4.8 Litre, 4-cam, Ferrari V12 is known affectionately as "Nigel's Flyer' and must be seen to be fully appreciated. This example is one of just four known 308s worldwide that boast a V12 Ferrari engine.

The current owner found the car in 2013, following a 10-year stint in dry-storage, and he entrusted it to the very man that originally converted it. Nigel Hudson, now under his own name, began a two-year, no expense spared, re-commissioning. The engine, gearbox, brakes and suspension were all taken apart and inspected by Nigel. New parts were fitted where necessary and according to the vendor, "the car drives beautifully." The leather interior and carpets were left original and unrestored.

The finished product is something very special indeed. Included in the sale are the original books, manuals, unused jack, tool kit, cromodoro alloy wheels and a decent history file. There are 10 previous MoT certificates, current MoT until July 2017, 6 stamps in the service book and bills and receipts from Nigel Hudson for all recent works.

Silverstone Auctions always enjoy a car that represents something slightly different or left field. This 308 V12 offers its next owner exclusivity, classic 80s styling, and lots of power. We welcome pre-sale inspections and encourage prospective bidders to contact the office for further details.

*Sales Room Announcement: Please note that this vehicle was modified by a third party without Ferrari's consent and, as a result, the vehicle is not eligible for Ferrari Classiche certification in its current condition.